Interactive Technology Changes in our Schools

In many parts of the country, the school year is winding down for many students and teachers. While they may be already planning their summer breaks, it’s a good time to re-assess what levels of technology are being faced in the K-12 classrooms around the U.S.

The average classroom no longer has a white board and overheard projector. But rather the classrooms are now being equipped with various forms of technology which have made teaching, and learning, much more exciting for both teachers and their students. Technology has advanced to a level where kids are learning concepts and ideas through Smartboards and spaces are controlled using commercial audio-visual systems.

Several school systems are succeeding in their use of interactive whiteboards. The Sundale Tulare Elementary School in Tulare, CA decided to upgrade to a new interactive math and science learning system, and equip its school rooms with whiteboards. The school contacted CCS Presentation Systems to bring in interactive whiteboards to its rooms, enabling the full power of the new interactive learning system to take hold.

Another example is the Lattie F. Coor Building, located on the main campus of Arizona State University (ASU) in Tempe, AZ, which opened its doors a few years ago. This 275,000 square-foot academic center cost nearly $60 million to build during a two-year span, and relies heavily on AMX NI Series controllers to automate and monitor a variety of audio-video equipment to help in student education.

Technology training for teachers is also happening on a widespread scale. One such example is Project Innovation, a district-wide professional development plan to leverage interactive technology investments while raising all teachers to an appropriate level of classroom integration. In this method, technology is introduced and knowledge built upon slowly until teachers become experts on the interactive products and software in their classrooms and how those pieces integrate.

Even more challenging for teachers in a technology environment is the rapid development in 2012 for mobile technology. More students have access to the Internet in the palms of their hands, and faster access to information. With this challenge for teachers, mobile technology is rapidly changing the way that educators and school districts are looking at student education. It’s a topic that’s only growing in discussion and rapid development.

Earlier this year, the New York Times sponsored a section called The Frontier of Classroom Technology, in which educators, authors and teachers called out in a series of op-eds how the classroom school systems need to be re-evaluated in the face of developing technology. Regarding mobile technology, author and educator Will Richardson wrote:

“Access in our kids’ pockets will force us to rethink much of what we do in schools. For one thing, we have to stop asking questions in classrooms that students can now answer with their phones (state capitals anyone?) and instead ask questions that require more than just a connection to answer — questions that call upon them to employ synthesis and critical thinking and creativity, not just memorization. Anything less is not preparing them for the information rich world that we live in.”

Internet technology, mobile access, classroom technology fixtures – all of these elements are top of mind for parents, educators and students. Now is the time for rapid technology changes, and with these changes come a need for understanding.

One of the best examples of CCS Presentation Systems’ work with our district is the integrated system they designed for our Governing Board Room. CCS took the time to understand our needs and they came up with an innovative and highly professional solution. The results are outstanding.

Jeff HolderAlhambra Elementary School District

What level of service can you expect from CCS? John Lynch, Director of Information Systems of Medical Professional Associates (MedPro) of Phoenix, Arizona, explains the CCS difference, “From my first contact with CCS, the willingness to understand and meet our needs was apparent. Prior to making any specific recommendations, the sales representative took the time to research our projection system requirements and our facilities. MedPro was able to make the wisest possible decision from a selection of viable solutions that balance capabilities and cost. CCS is clearly committed to building long-term customer relationships based on value-added service that always goes the extra mile. What CCS promises, CCS delivers.

John LynchMedical Professional Associates of Phoenix

Kent Duffy, elaborates on the district’s selection of CCS as the provider of presentation equipment and services. “Competitive pricing is only the beginning of MCCD requirements. Over the past three years, CCS provided 80 projectors and built 12 teacher workstations. The number of installations overwhelmed many of the potential bidders for our projector business. CCS is one of the few companies with the skill and the resources to successfully tackle a challenge such as the 23 installations they completed in less than 90 days.”Duffy was equally enthusiastic about CCS Presentation Systems from a service viewpoint, “Our CCS account representative does more than respond to questions or requests. I receive regular courtesy calls just to confirm my continued satisfaction. Value-added services like extended factory warranties or the rapid replacement of key equipment becomes part of the total service package we enjoy with CCS.

Kent DuffyMaricopa County Community College

I have had the pleasure of knowing Rian since 1999 and have worked with him on all our audio/visual needs, including design, integration, and installation of our corporate boardroom, office and home theatre systems. Rian is without a doubt the most knowledgeable, accomplished and experienced professional in the audio/visual technology industry that I have ever encountered. Rian has always demonstrated quality and professionalism in his dealings with our company.

Robert T. EgletMainor Eglet Cottle

We are a very large real estate developer and CCS brought to us this idea of, what we call a megawall. It is four 60″ plasma display screens and stands 7 feet tall. We have seven other LCD monitors around the room with speakers above them. The system is activated when you step on a pressure sensitive pad in the carpet. The system is totally amazing. CCS Presentation Systems answered all of our questions and were responsive to our needs. Working with CCS was a very good experience from the beginning to the very end. They didn’t leave me hanging once and I appreciate that.

Lynn HalkLakewood Ranch

I was incredibly pleased with the installation. I have purchased a great deal of equipment for the library from a wide variety of companies, and your team at CCS is the best I’ve ever dealt with. The guys did such a great job on the install and answered all of my many questions. I can’t tell you how impressed our staff is with the new system and install; my library schedule is filling up fast with teachers who are anxious to use the new system. I am extremely happy with everything and will certainly continue to recommend you to our staff.

Sara NielsenDowney Unified School District

CCS Presentation Systems is a preferred supplier of audio video products and multimedia presentation systems to the education, corporate and government markets.